PALM Cove has been rated in the top 10 global hot holiday spots by leading travel retailer Flight Centre.
Cairns Post – Dec 3, 2014 – Nick Dalton
TOP SPOT: Rochelle Hull and Rachael McPaul enjoy the natural beauty and warm water of Palm Cove beach. Picture: Brendan Radke.
The seaside village 25km north of the Cairns CBD is the only Australian listing, which includes Tokyo, Barcelona, Borocay (Philippines), Honolulu, Gallipoli, London, Vanuatu, the Gili Islands (Bali) and Santiago (Chile).
Flight Centre Australia head Tom Walley said the 10 were the most popular hot spots for 2015.
“The list, created by Flight Centre’s team of experts, is compiled based on booking data over the past three years as well as key factors such as what our customers are inquiring about and what the travel industry is offering next year,’’ he said.
“Queensland is always a winner with holiday-makers but we are expecting big things from Palm Cove, particularly in the family market.
“Palm Cove was included because it offers a more intimate seaside escape over other popular options such as the Gold Coast, and it represents great value for money for families.
“We also factored in Nu Nu’s moving to the waterfront and the presence of some fantastic full-service resorts including Peppers and Pullman.”
Mr Whalley said Palm Cove offered the best of both worlds.
“You don’t need to fight for towel space on the beach but you have an esplanade full of restaurants to choose from,’’ he said.
“With just a row of palm trees separating you from the sand, Palm Cove is the perfect place for travellers looking for a more intimate seaside escape and its calm beaches make it perfect for small children.
“Consistent, cheap flights to Cairns and a balmy year-round climate also add to the attraction,” he said.
Mr Whalley said other factors were SilkAir beginning a new scheduled service to Cairns from Singapore in May 2015 and China Eastern extending seasonal services for 2015.
“There are also new regular express public bus services between Palm Cove and Cairns City day and night operating mostly on the half-hour,’’ he said.
Tourism Palm Cove president John Felan said the village was regarded as a safe place, especially for women travelling alone.
He said the lower Australian dollar was making the village more attractive now than South Pacific and near Asian rival destinations. “It’s egalitarian Australia on a natural beach and surrounds,’’ Mr Felan said.
Peppers Beach Club and Spa general manager Chris Northam said it was “pleasing, but not surprising that Palm Cove has made the list”.
“The destination is a wonderful mix of relaxation, exceptional dining experiences, family friendly beaches and world class resorts that appeal to a variety of guests,’’ he said.
“Air access is cheap and plentiful and the appealing climate means it is becoming more of a year-round destination.”